Extending from Stillbay to Storms River and the Tsitsikama Nature Reserve, the Garden Route describes a beautiful and varied coastal plain.
The region is an ecological paradise of pristine
fynbos
dunes and 'half-heart' bays, bordered by plunging
shoreline cliffs. Moving inland, the coastline dissolves
into the dense indigenous forest of the coastal plateau
- cut dramatically by deep gorges - and the spectacular
mountain ranges and arid landscapes of the Klein
Karoo.
Such a broad spectrum of natural habitats, each with their own distinct flora and fauna, forms part of the Cape floral kingdom and lends to the region an extraordinary diversity and breathtaking beauty.
The mild, temperate climate makes for a perfect year-round destination, with June - August being amongst the driest months. Christmas and Easter school holidays are the most popular times for South African holiday makers, so avoid these periods if you want the place to yourself.
The Garden Route has seen much development
in the last two decades - especially the Knysna and
Plettenberg Bay areas. Catering for increasing numbers
of holiday makers has provided a good infrastructure
of restaurants, accommodation and services. This combined
with the colonial history and temperate climate creates
an almost 'European feel' and having come from Cape
Town it may take a while for you to realise
you're actually in Africa. Do not be fooled! The essential
beauty of the Garden Route still remains and there are
many large conservation areas, where the visitor can
get a true feel for this very special part of Africa.
As well as the fantastic birdlife, baboons, bushbuck,
monkeys, bushpig and even leopards may still be found
in the wild and more remote areas.
Copyright Oceans Africa 2002. All rights reserved.
